Upgrade Your Wireless Network Equipment

Introduction

Get the most from your wireless home network by upgrading your equipment and updating firmware.

Overview

After you set up WiFi in your home, you’ll want to make sure your network is up to date so you get the most from your Internet service. Outdated equipment and firmware can slow down what could be a fast connection. Here’s how to check for upgrades and keep your network working at its best.

Outdated Equipment

Like computers and mobile phones, new models of modems, routers, and gateways are released regularly. You don’t need to update your devices to keep your home network running, but you could be missing out on improved services if you continue to use older models.

Routers

Most routers support the following types of wireless connection: Wireless-G, which is older, and Wireless-N, which is newer and works better with the higher speed tiers of XFINITY Internet service, like Blast! or Extreme.

If you have Blast! or Extreme XFINITY Internet service from Comcast, you’ll want to make sure you have a router with a Wireless-N connection and at least a 2x2 antenna configuration. If your router doesn’t, then it won’t be able to handle the higher speeds and you’ll want to get a new router.

Modems

Like your router, an older modem may not be able to connect to the Internet at faster speeds, even if you’ve upgraded your speed tier.

All modems come with a DOCSIS version number that lets you know what level of service it can provide. The most advanced DOCSIS version is currently 3.0. To check the DOCSIS rating of your modem, please look for its name at the DOCSIS Device Information Center. If your network connects with Blast! or Extreme, you’ll need a DOCSIS 3.0 modem to take advantage of the extra speed you should be getting.

Also, PowerBoost, a Comcast network technology that helps you download and upload large files quickly, requires a DOCSIS 1.1 modem or higher. If you lease your modem from Comcast, you’re automatically entitled to upgrade to a newer modem, free of charge. If you use your own modem, you’ll need to buy a new modem to take advantage of PowerBoost.

Outdated Firmware

Firmware is a program or set of instructions that controls hardware like a router or modem. Manufacturers periodically update their products’ firmware so that they work optimally. You’ll want to check the Internet for firmware updates to make sure you’re getting the best performance from your devices.

One advantage of the Wireless Gateway 1 (model numbers TG852G, TG862G, SMCD3DNV, TC8305C) and Wireless Gateway 2 (model number DPC3939) is that Comcast regularly updates its firmware automatically, so you don’t have to manually check for updates.

If you don’t have a Wireless Gateway 1 or Wireless Gateway 2, you’ll need to periodically check for updates. Generally, you can check for these updates through your router’s administration site. Please refer to your router’s user guide for specific instructions.